Former Utah running back Matt Asiata scores three TDs in first NFL start in Vikings' win

Minnesota Vikings running back Matt Asiata reacts after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013, in Minneapolis.

Ann Heisenfelt, ASSOCIATED PRESS

Summary

Matt Asiata, the Minnesota Vikings' third-string running back, got his first NFL start in the backfield against the Philadelphia Eagles and delivered with a big day.

“My dream was to make it to the NFL, and I wish my dad was here to witness it.”

Vikings running back Matt Asiata

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings needed someone to step into the backfield with star running back Adrian Peterson and his backup Toby Gerhart out with injuries, and Matt Asiata answered the call in a big way.

The former Utah running back, who was the Vikings' third-stringer, got his first NFL start against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday and scored the first three touchdowns of his pro career in a 48-30 victory.

Asiata rushed for 51 yards on 30 carries against Philadelphia, and he had three receptions for 15 yards for injury-riddled Minnesota. Going into the game, the former Hunter High athlete had three career carries in the NFL for nine yards, as well as one reception for two yards.

"He's been through a lot with his family and to see him rewarded like this and to get this opportunity ... so grateful for him, grateful for his family," Vikings coach Leslie Frazier told the Pioneer Press. "I'm sure it was a great day for them and something he'll be able to cherish for the rest of his life."

His first touchdown of the game — a 1-yard score with 1:06 to play until halftime — put Minnesota up 17-6.

Asiata's other two touchdowns came in the fourth quarter and helped the Vikings hold off Philadelphia and snap the Eagles' five-game winning streak. Asiata's 1-yard run with 13:01 remaining put Minnesota up 34-22 after the Eagles had cut the Viking lead to five points.

Asiata then delivered the game-sealing score, finding the end zone from five yards out with just over a minute to play to put the Vikings up 18.

“I look at it as a blessing,” Asiata told Sports Illustrated, “just getting the opportunity to show the coaches what I can do and help this offense out.”